LUNCH & LEARN - Proactive Maintenance

& Storm Damage Preparedness Strategies for Multifamily Professionals


Thursday, May 29, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (CDT)

Des Moines Public Library - Central; Meeting Room #1


1000 Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309-3027 United States
Category: Education

 

Instructor: Marc Ness
Duration: 2 Hours (Including Q&A)
Format: Interactive Presentation, Case Studies, and Q&A

 

  • Why This Matters: Preventative maintenance is essential for reducing long-term costs, preserving property value, and ensuring resident safety.
  • Who It’s For: Multifamily housing maintenance managers and property managers looking to streamline operations, prevent costly repairs, and extend the lifespan of their buildings.

 

The Cost of Reactive vs. Preventative Maintenance

  • Industry Statistics: The financial impact of emergency repairs vs. scheduled maintenance
  • Common Consequences of Reactive Risk Management: Structural damage, liability issues, insurance complications
  • Real-World Examples: Case studies of properties that benefited from preventative measures vs. those that didn’t

 

Key Preventative Maintenance Strategies

  1. Grounds & Drainage Considerations
    • Preventing flooding and erosion
    • Snow and ice management for winter readiness
  2. HVAC & Plumbing System Checks
    • Preventing costly failures with scheduled maintenance
    • Best practices for extending system longevity
  3. Exterior Maintenance & Building Envelope Protection
    • Common weak points: siding, fascia, gutters, and windows
    • Strategies to prevent water damage, mold, and structural issues
    • Planning routine exterior inspections
  4. Roof Inspections & Weather Preparedness
    • Identifying early signs of damage (hail, wind, water infiltration)
    • Seasonal roof maintenance best practices
    • Benefits of 24/7 weather monitoring services

 

Implementation: Building a Proactive Maintenance Plan

  • Creating a Maintenance Schedule: What to inspect and when
  • Leveraging Technology: How real-time monitoring and reporting can streamline maintenance
  • Budgeting for Preventative Maintenance: Securing buy-in from property owners and investors

 

Introduction to Storm Damage Preparedness (15-20 minutes)

  • Understanding the Risks: Overview of common severe weather events (hurricanes, tornadoes, hailstorms, windstorms, flooding).
  • Why Proactive Preparation is Critical: Cost savings, liability reduction, tenant safety, and property preservation.
  • Regulatory & Insurance Considerations: Local and federal requirements for storm preparedness and property management responsibilities.

Activity: Group discussion on past storm damage experiences and challenges.

 

Key Indicators of Severe Storm Damage (30 minutes)

  • Roofing & Structural Indicators: Missing shingles, leaks, sagging roof sections, water stains.
  • Exterior & Common Area Damage: Damaged siding, broken windows, compromised balconies, flooding issues.
  • HVAC & Utility Considerations: Risks to rooftop units, electrical systems, and plumbing after severe weather.
  • Interior Red Flags: Water intrusion, mold growth, and structural cracking.

Case Study: Real-world examples of undetected storm damage leading to major property losses.

 

Identifying Storm Damage Risks & Evidence (45 minutes)

  • Pre-Storm Inspections & Documentation: How to establish a property condition baseline.
  • Post-Storm Inspection Best Practices: Checklist for property managers to assess and record damage.
  • Documenting Evidence for Insurance Claims: Photos, videos, written reports, and third-party assessments.
  • The Role of Technology: Drones, infrared scanning, and digital mapping for damage assessments.

Hands-On Exercise: Reviewing sample storm damage photos and determining next steps.

 

The Importance of a Trusted Storm Damage Expert (30 minutes)

  • Why Property Managers Shouldn’t Go It Alone: Navigating complex claims, avoiding underpaid or denied claims.
  • How to Vet a Qualified Storm Damage & Insurance Expert: Credentials, experience, references, and industry certifications.
  • Working with Adjusters & Insurance Companies: Understanding policy language, claim timelines, and negotiation strategies.
  • Long-Term Risk Mitigation Strategies: Building relationships with trusted vendors, establishing emergency protocols.

Q&A Session: Open discussion with the expert for property managers to address concerns.

 

Conclusion & Action Plan (15 minutes)

  • Key Takeaways & Best Practices Recap (FAQ)
    • Why an investment in preventative maintenance today saves money and stress tomorrow
  • Developing a Custom Storm Preparedness Plan for Your Properties (Step-by-step checklist)
  • Next Steps: Scheduling Property Assessments & Expert Consultations

 

Resource Handouts:

  • Pre- and Post-Storm Inspection Checklists
  • Sample Documentation & Reporting Templates
  • Guide to Understanding Property Insurance Claims
    • What to do before you file a claim

 

This curriculum ensures property managers are equipped with practical knowledge and proactive strategies to safeguard their properties and navigate storm-related insurance claims efficiently. Let me know if you’d like to adjust or add anything!

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SPONSORED BY

 

Who Should Attend?

  

 

For More Information:

Jessica Grandstaff

Jessica Grandstaff

Midwest Regional Trainer, BH Management Services